Breast implants permanently alter breast appearance and carry both common surgical risks and device-specific complications such as capsular contracture, rupture, and a rare lymphoma linked to some textured implants. Regulatory warnings and ongoing research into systemic symptoms mean careful counseling, realistic expectations, and planned long-term follow-up are important. Elective augmentation for minors is generally discouraged.

How breast implants work and what they change

Breast implants - silicone gel or saline - are medical devices placed under breast tissue or chest muscles to change size and shape. They require surgical incisions, stretch the skin and underlying tissue, and create a long-term change to how the breasts look and feel.

Risks and common complications

All surgery carries risks: infection, bleeding, anesthesia complications and scarring. Specific implant issues include:
  • Capsular contracture: the body forms scar tissue around an implant; the capsule can tighten, causing firmness, pain or distortion that may require revision surgery.
  • Rupture and deflation: implants are not lifetime devices. Rupture risk increases with time and may require removal or replacement; many patients face revision within roughly a decade, though individual experiences vary.
  • Sensation and breastfeeding: some people notice changes in nipple or breast sensation. Breastfeeding is still possible for many people after augmentation, but prior surgery can make nursing more difficult in some cases.
  • Textured implants and rare lymphoma: certain textured implants have been linked to a rare cancer called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Regulators and manufacturers have acted on this risk, and textured-surface devices are used less frequently today.
  • Subjective effects: implants can feel different from natural tissue; saline implants may produce movement or a faint sloshing sensation for some people.

Systemic concerns and regulation

Terms like "breast implant illness" (BII) describe a range of systemic symptoms some patients report after implants. Research is ongoing; regulators require informed consent and labeling. In the United States the FDA requires manufacturers to include a boxed warning and patient decision information so people considering implants know the benefits and risks.

Longevity, follow-up and removal

Expect follow-up visits and the possibility of future surgeries. Implants may need replacement, revision or removal for cosmetic reasons, complications or patient preference. Removal does not fully restore the breasts to their pre-surgery state because skin and tissue have been stretched.

Psychological and social considerations

Some people report improved self-image after augmentation; others experience unexpected social reactions or personal discomfort with the change. Realistic expectations and counseling about outcomes and body image improve decision-making.

Advice for people considering implants

  • Talk with a board-certified plastic surgeon and review device-specific information.
  • Confirm age recommendations: cosmetic saline implants are generally for adults, and silicone gel implants are typically recommended for older adults in some jurisdictions; follow local regulatory guidance.
  • Ask about implant surface (smooth vs textured), rupture detection, expected lifespan and revision rates.
  • For minors, delay elective cosmetic augmentation and prioritize psychological assessment and parental involvement.
Choosing breast implants is a medical decision with surgical, cosmetic and long-term implications. Informed consent, realistic expectations and follow-up care are essential.

FAQs about Silicone Breast Implants

Are breast implants permanent?
No. Implants are long-term devices but not lifetime devices. Many people need revision, replacement or removal within roughly a decade, though timing varies.
Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?
Many people breastfeed successfully after implants, but prior breast surgery can increase the chance of breastfeeding difficulties. Discuss surgical approach and breastfeeding goals with your surgeon.
What is capsular contracture?
Capsular contracture happens when scar tissue around an implant tightens, causing hardness, pain or breast distortion; it may require additional surgery.
Are there cancer risks from implants?
A rare lymphoma called BIA-ALCL has been linked mainly to certain textured-surface implants. Use of textured devices has declined and regulators provide guidance on this risk.
Should teenagers get breast implants?
Elective cosmetic breast augmentation in minors is generally discouraged. Decisions should involve parents, a qualified surgeon and, when appropriate, psychological evaluation.